EXCLUSIVE: Diego Costa has no split loyalties heading to his homeland for the World Cup

PAY THE COSTA BE THE BOSS: Costa switched allegiance to play for Spain even after being capped by Brazil [GETTY]

But if Diego Costa does the business for Spain this summer he will be Public Enemy No.1 in his home country.

Born in Lagarto, Brazil, Costa began his professional career in Portugal with Braga before signing for Atletico Madrid in 2007.

It was there he ﬂ ourished, earning his ﬁ rst call-up to the Brazilian national team. He went on to play for them in two friendlies last year.

But when he was granted Spanish citizenship in September 2013, he decided to switch his allegiance and declare for his adopted country instead.

It was a controversial decision and it sparked uproar in Brazil, where many have still not forgiven him.

Brazil coach Big Phil Scolari accused him of “turning his back on a dream of millions” by refusing to play for his side at a World Cup on home soil.

“Spain have given me a chance to show how good I am at this World Cup and I am convinced I can make an impact”

Diego Costa

As a result, Costa faces the wrath of a nation this summer.

But he insists he made the right decision.

“The criticism does not affect me,” he said.

“If I’m playing at a World Cup, I’m prepared to suffer pressure on the pitch.

“It’s always been my dream to play in a World Cup, even when I was a kid. I used to watch Ronaldo – ‘O Fenomeno’ – all the time. He was my idol.

“It’s true I could have been playing for Brazil at this World Cup. But Spain is my country now and the people are with me. “It’s not a problem for me if people think Diego Costa has caused a controversy. No one can accuse me of showing Brazil a lack of respect.

“I am a professional but my choice to play for Spain was made with the head. I don’t regret it. Brazil approached me very late in my career. I played in Spain for many years but only recently did they think of me. When Spain approached me my choice was clear. I am a ‘naturalised’ player. But those have merits too and deserve their chance.

“Spain have given me a chance to show how good I am at this World Cup and I am convinced I can make an impact.”

Costa is overcoming a muscle pull that saw him limp out of the Champions League Final after just eight minutes. But Vicent Del Bosque had no qualms about including him in the Spain squad after his goals ﬁred Atletico to the La Liga title.

And Costa said: “Spain are the world champions. “And we will give everything to try to keep the cup.”